Spearing: We Need To Take Advantage Of Good Starts

Captain Feels Team Hasn’t Taken Full Advantage Of Recent Bright Starts To Games

27 December 2019

Jay Spearing believes Blackpool need to make the most of good opportunities when on top, following yesterday’s defeat to Accrington Stanley.

The Seasiders have recorded back-to-back 1-0 home defeats in losses to Shrewsbury and Accrington in the past week, despite starting both games well and creating countless opportunities.

Reflecting on the two defeats, Spearing wants to see more from the team – particularly when on top.

“The past two matches aren’t what we’re about as a team,” the captain said.

“In those periods when we’re on top, we need to get that goal that will spark us into life, or failing that we need to make those periods last longer so we can make that breakthrough. For those opening 15-20 minutes in the Accrington match, we were clearly on top and caused a lot of problems.

“We just weren’t able to finish the job and put the ball in the back of the net, which ultimately comes down to us not being clinical enough at times.

“We’re in a bit of a sticky patch after the last two matches, but with so many games coming in a short space of time, this gives us a perfect opportunity to put things right. It’s now time for us to step up as men and show exactly what we’re about.”

Despite not collecting anything from the Boxing Day fixture, it was a moment to remember for 20-year-old goalkeeper, Jack Sims, who came on to make his debut in the first half following an injury to Jak Alnwick.

“I felt Jack did really well when he came on, so credit to him,” Spearing said.

“It’s not easy coming on so quickly following an injury to a team mate, particularly to go and make your first-team debut. I felt he did a good job in the 60 minutes or so he was on the pitch, and he deserved the round of applause he got for his contribution in the game.”